"It can, but only if We, the people start taking power away from the bureaucrats and politicians."
The problem as I opine is that those politicians think that they are to rule Over the populace instead of being the true civil Servants of it. They should have no power at all except what the people ask them to do on their behalf, a true democracy.

Perfect example that I would use as abusers are monarchs and dictators.

As for Europe, may I use an example of cooperation of Germany and Poland. Has there been more historical conflict as between these two countries? Yet they are working quite well within the union. Poland supplies produce and Germany manufactured goods. A kind of symbiosis. What friction remains is from the older folks whose memories can not be erased.

North American union: "Would that go down well in Canada - Never.(lol)"

I agree but I would pose the question of Canada joining the European union. Would the answer be the same or to the same degree?
I think with Europe it would be more natural.